| Re: anxiety over ACD scheduled for 2/4
Hi 2nd timer,
Well, I'm a first timer scheduled for ACDF tomorrow so I'm not sure I'm one to give advice, but as far as cold feet go, mine have turned to ice. I am going to go through with it however. I think it's always a problem with "elective" surgery - there's always a fear it might make things worse instead of better. I am in a similar situation with three small children and a full time job. I transcribe at home so if I don't work, I don't get paid so I can't let this go on forever. The pain does not fit very well into my life either and I have also moved quickly to surgery (tried several weeks of rest and meds, several weeks of chiro and tried PT to no avail). When my primary Dr. and then neurologist saw my MRI they said to just do the surgery - it is all that would help. I was a bit skeptical (or maybe in denial) for awhile but came to the conclusion they were right. I've had absolutely no improvement and can't function without the pain meds and can't function with them either. If I could sort of function with the pain, or didn't have people depending on me I might make the decision to wait it out.
I think the wait for surgery is so frustrating. I've thought about cancelling at least 1000 times and even convinced myself I was doing better for a few days (until I decided I didn't need the pain meds anymore - big reality check). Anyway, I don't know what decision is right for you and you certainly have a better understanding of the postsurgical period than I do so keep weighing your options. I'm going to go watch TV to take my mind off tomorrow (yeah, right!) and try to get some sleep, but I wish you the best in whatever you decide. If you do go through with the surgery, please let us know how you're doing. I know reading other's surgical posts helped me tremendously with my decision to go ahead. Even the less than positive experiences are important so I know what I might expect and it's great to hear of those who have a good result and with time are able to get their lives back somewhat. That's what I'm praying for.
Best wishes!
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